Alton Runners achieved some impressive results at the Netley 10km race, which attracted an excellent turnout of 682 runners.

The race is part of the Hampshire Road Race League and drew runners from across the county – including a lively group of 24 from Alton Runners.

The day started off a bit grey and chilly, but the clouds soon gave way to sunshine as runners tackled the second half of the newly-revamped course.

Moving away from the usual three-lap route inside Royal Victoria Country Park, this year’s race took participants through the village of Netley Abbey, offering a more scenic and undulating challenge.

The start and finish were set against the backdrop of the Royal Victoria Chapel.

Every finisher was treated to a microfibre towel featuring the new route, along with some water and fruit to help with recovery.

Alton Runners had plenty to celebrate. Dylan Poulton led the team home with an impressive fifth place finish. He was followed by Steve Drysdale in 30th, and Christian Coles, who clocked a new personal best. Benny Roddis also smashed his personal best, rounding off a strong showing from the men’s team.

Roddis said: “It was a really enjoyable new route which was brilliantly organised. A fantastic Alton Runners turnout and good vibes made for a perfect weekend.”

Rachel Walsh was the first Alton lady across the line and was awarded a trophy for being the first senior female. Abbie Hook followed with a personal best of her own, with Samara Kelleher-Jacobs and Diane Byrne completing the top four.

Hook said: “I really enjoyed the new route – one loop is much more preferable to three laps.”

Other standout performances included Donna Mansfield, who knocked five minutes off her previous best, and Fleur Rialls, who made her Alton Runners debut.

By Lydia Andrews